3 mid-tier free agents that make sense for the Cleveland Browns in 2023
By Greg Newland
Browns Free Agent Target No. 1: Da’Ron Payne, DT
The Cleveland Browns were once again a complete embarrassment when it came to stopping the run in 2022. I know the Joe Woods system was set to stop the pass, but when you give up five yards per carry, it’s never going to be easy for your defense to get off the field.
This must be the year where Berry finally adds help at defensive tackle. Jordan Elliott and Taven Bryant showed flashes of being capable NFL starters, but this defense got ransacked up the middle all year by opposing offenses.
Daron Payne with the sack on 2nd and long, now into double digit sacks on the season. Had a great year pic.twitter.com/slc5UEjT5X
— Mark Bullock (@MarkBullockNFL) January 1, 2023
Daron Payne isn’t exactly a no-name, but because of the position he plays and other “big-name” players who are available, he could slide under the radar. The Washington Commanders would likely love to keep him, but with so much talent at the position already, they can’t afford to keep everyone.
A breakout year with 11.5 sacks in 2022 could drive up the price tag for Payne, but with him still in his prime, this is one player that Berry has to go out and get to sure up this defense. In the grand scheme paying a little extra for a defensive tackle is still way cheaper than overpaying for a wide receiver, cornerback, or defensive end.
Some believe Berry may go to the draft to try and fix the gaping hole at defensive tackle, but I’m still hopeful he will go to free agency.
